Memorial of St. Cecilia, Virgin and Martyr
Daniel 1:1-6, 8-20; Psalm – Daniel 3:52-56; Luke 21:1-4
In the first reading, King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon imposed his own religion on the Isrealites and through Ashpenaz, his chief chamberlain, he got some men of Judah; Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah to be cultured for service in his palace. However, these men resolved not to defile themselves with the king’s food or wine and the chief chamberlain respected their decision. Eventually, it was recorded that these men appeared healthier and better than those who ate from the royal table. Beloved, we are not going to die if we resolve not to defile ourselves irrespective of pressure. In the Gospel we see a poor widow putting all she had in to the collection box in the synagogue. This widow denied herself all she had to possess all the Lord was offering. Like the four young men, the widow and St. Cecilia whose memorial we celebrate today; true Christians must learn the path of martyrdom.
LET US PRAY
O God, who gladden us each year with the feast day of your handmaid Saint Cecilia, grant, we pray, that what has been devoutly handed down concerning her may offer us examples to imitate and proclaim the wonders worked in his servants by Christ your Son. Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, forever and ever. AMEN
